Genesis of meira paibi movement recalled
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 29 2011:
Hailing the bravery of Meira Paibis, the 31st Meira Paibi Day was observed today at Iboyaima Shanglen, Palace Compound with a call to further strengthen the Meira Paibi movement.
The main feature of the observance organised by the All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj was offering of tributes to the founders of Meira Paibi movement.
Giving the key-note address, All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj member Oinam (O) Rita said that in the aftermath of the army operation in Patsoi Langjing area in the early part of 1980, a large number of people were thrashed mercilessly and tortured by security forces because a bomb was planted at Heirangoithong Maibam Leikai on the road leading to Canchipur on December 29 the same year.
The security forces also took away two youngsters to their Canchipur camp before handing one to police.
The then president of All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj Pebam Chaobi, present secretary Ramani, Momon and Indu went to the Canchipur camp and battled with the security forces in a non-violent manner to free the innocent youngster they took away.
They managed to bring back the youngster from the security camp.
The same night a large number of security personnel camp to the locality where the bomb was planted creating deep fear and apprehension among the civilians.
Notwithstanding the terrifying situation, the local womenfolk and leaders of the All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj came out with torches in their hands and guarded the locality the whole night.
Thus the Meira Paibi movement took birth in Manipur and since then December 29 is being observed as Meira Paibi Day every year, Rita said.
Starting from this incident, Meira Paibis have been battling against all kinds of atrocities and excesses committed by security forces under Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act like massacre of innocent people, involuntary disappearance of apprehended youths, fake encounters, rape and murder of women.
Speaking at the occasion, UCM president Yumnamcha Dilip observed that the bravery and spirit of the then Meira Paibis was exceptional.
Acknowledging the valour, spirit and responsibility of the Meira Paibis, the Meira Paibi movement has been chosen as thesis for many PhD students today.
Thokchom Ramani recalled that even Ministers and MLAs could not secure release of innocent people apprehended by security forces during 1980's .
It was during this period that the illiterate women guarded their own localities with torches throughout the night and they succeeded in saving and rescuing many youngsters from the hands of security forces.
Joy Nongmaithem while observing that the Meira Paibi movement has been steadily losing its vigour and strength, asserted that the people need to study the factors responsible for impairing the Meira Paibi movement.
Noting that Meira Paibi groups are being set up just for a sack of charcoal, Joy asserted that many Meira Paibis of today have become complacent with such offers like charcoal, television sets etc.
Forgetting the rapes and murders committed allegedly under the Government, the people have been demanding Supra State, alternative arrangement etc from the same Government, he stated.
All Manipur Muslim Women Development Organisation president Sitara Begum said that the spirit behind the Meira Paibi movement is women's power.
"This power can save youngsters, women and the nation", she added.